Born Again Savage
Steven Van Zandt · 1999
61 min · 10 tracks · hard rock
A gritty blend of hard rock and socially conscious lyrics that channel raw energy and introspection.
Top tracks — play these first
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Born Again Savage — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of rebirth and personal struggle, setting the tone for the entire record with its anthemic chorus.
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Guns, Drugs, and Gasoline — This track stands out for its raw exploration of societal issues, combining hard-hitting riffs with poignant commentary on modern life.
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Face of God — Easily the emotional centerpiece, this song blends powerful instrumentation with reflective lyrics that challenge listeners' perceptions of faith and existence.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends hard rock with socially conscious themes, showcasing Van Zandt's songwriting and vocal delivery.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a title track that features a driving guitar riff and layered vocals, establishing a gritty tone.
- Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the communal feel of the lyrics.
- The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a reflective atmosphere that contrasts with the earlier energy.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- gradual build to powerful conclusion
- introspective themes with raw energy
- gritty storytelling for deep reflection
- late-night contemplation with intensity
Maybe skip if you
- seeking quick, upbeat tracks
- prefer standalone singles over cohesion
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1999, Born Again Savage was Steven Van Zandt's first solo album after his time with the E Street Band and his work on The Sopranos. This record marked a significant point in his career, showcasing his transition from a prominent sideman to a solo artist with a distinct voice.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Bruce Springsteen· Tom Petty· Joe Grushecky
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Born Again Savage 4:38
- 2 Camouflage of Righteousness 5:01
- 3 Guns, Drugs, and Gasoline 4:59
- 4 Face of God 7:38
- 5 Saint Francis 8:18
- 6 Salvation 5:09
- 7 Organize 2:13
- 8 Flesheater 6:08
- 9 Lust for Enlightment 8:38
- 10 Tongues of Angels 8:18
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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